What are articular pillars?
In the cervical vertebral column, the articular processes collectively form the articular pillars. These are the bony surfaces palpated just lateral to the spinous processes.
How do I get to the articular pillars?
- Palpate with your fingertips approximately 3/4″ – 1″ lateral from the spinous process of the corresponding vertebra to locate the articular pillars.
- Palpate using a P-A motion with the tips of the index finger and thumb feeling for bony resistance.
What structures are formed by the articular processes of the lumbar vertebrae?
The articular processes of the lumbar vertebrae form the facet or zygapophyseal joints. Each joint consists of two opposed and vertically oriented plates surrounded by a dense connective-tissue fibrous capsule (Lewin et al 1962).
What is superior articular process?
A superior articular process extends or faces upward, and an inferior articular process faces or projects downward on each side of a vertebrae. The paired superior articular processes of one vertebra join with the corresponding paired inferior articular processes from the next higher vertebra.
What does articular process mean?
Medical Definition of articular process : either of two processes on each side of a vertebra that articulate with adjoining vertebrae: a : superior articular process. b : inferior articular process.
How do you check C spine?
- Provide reassurance and analgesia.
- Whilst minimising neck movement, gently palpate the posterior midline of the neck.
- Repeat the process lateral to the midline on both sides.
- Tenderness may indicate vertebral or soft tissue injury.
What is the difference between a facet and a process?
On each side of the vertebral arch of each lumbar vertebra there is an inferior and a superior articular process. The inferior (lower) articular processes of one vertebra form a zygapophyseal joint (facet joint) with the superior (upper) articular processes of the vertebra below it to connect the two vertebrae.
What are articular processes?
What articulates at the superior articular process?
The superior articular processes face upward and are deeply curved for articulation with the occipital condyles on the base of the skull. The inferior articular processes are flat and face downward to join with the superior articular processes of the C2 vertebra.
